Best Portable Table Saw Reviews in 2018
Table saws come in various styles and sizes; among them, the portable table saws are perhaps the most versatile. Do you want to know which are the best? Read our portable table saw reviews to find out whether or not your choice is a good option.
But before plunging into the matter, there are a few things to consider before buying.
Here's a list of Portable Table Saw Reviews in 2018
Portable Table Saw | Rating | |
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How to Choose a Portable Table Saw
1. Power
The most important thing to consider when buying a portable table saw is the tool’s power. This typically determines the tool’s suitability for a specific job. The power is expressed in either watts or horsepower and is in close correlation with the maximum speed of the machine, shown in revolutions per minute.
A solid table saw able to rip through most woods, and alternative materials such as metals and plastics must have a motor of at least 15 amperes capable of outputting a power of around 2,000 watts.
The desired maximum speed should be around 4,000 revolutions per minute, and the rate must be adjustable so that you can cut through various materials.
2. Rip Capacity
The next thing to consider is the rip capacity which determines the maximum size of the wood sheet it can handle. Most portable table saws have a rip capacity of around 24 inches. A larger capacity of 25 inches is desired if you want to process larger workpieces.
The width capacity is another crucial figure to consider. The width is typically determined by side fences with either a dual-read or separate scale. Some older models can even have a continuous scale fence.
Moreover, you should consider the unit’s capability of making bevel cuts. This is important in specific woodworking projects and with a fixed 90° machine is very tricky to make angled cuts.
3. Blades
Most table saws come with a standard 24-tooth blade used for ripping through wood, but if you need versatility, check whether or not the machine is compatible with other types of blades. Luckily, most table saws are.
In broad terms, you will typically be able to fit a wide range of blades on your machine, from traditional coarse cuts blades for wood, to precision blades which have more teeth and are engineered to work at lower speeds.
Furthermore, most machines are also compatible with diamond coated blades, and high-speed steel blades used to cut both wood and metals. Most blades are also suitable to cut plastics, and some of them might even be able to cut tiles.
This opens a whole new world, as it allows you to use the table saw for multiple applications for DIY or commercial purposes.
Top 5 Portable Table Saw Reviews
1. DEWALT DWE7490X
Highlights
Rip Capacity
The DEWALT DWE7490X is a 10-inch portable table saw with an impressive rip capacity up to 24.5 inches. This incredible capacity is the result of an excellent telescoping fence system that accommodates larger workpieces.
Easy to Adjust
This durable and heavy-duty machine is smooth and easy to adjust thanks to the rack and pinion fence rails and Site-Pro modular guarding system. The tool-free adjustments add versatility to this machine, making it appropriate for multiple applications.
Overall Assessment
Perfect for a wide range of applications and ideal for amateur and professional use, this portable table saw can be used anywhere on the job site and is easy to move from one place to another. A convenient stand adds further value, and undoubtedly this is one of the best portable table saws on the market.
DEWALT DWE7490X Video Review
2. DEWALT DWE7480XA
Highlights
Speed
Ideal to use for multiple application including cutting wood and soft metals, the DEWALT DWE7480XA impresses with a reliable 15-Amp motor capable of spinning the blade at the astonishing speed of 4,800 revolutions per minute, just what it takes to handle hardwood with ease.
Easy Maintenance
Coming with an integrated dust management system, the machine is easy to maintain. The dust port allows for a 2.5-inch vacuum hook up and is compatible with the professional wet dry vacs. This minimizes clean up and maximizes work time.
Overall Assessment
Coming with an integrated dust management system, the machine is easy to maintain. The dust port allows for a 2.5-inch vacuum hook up and is compatible with the professional wet dry vacs. This minimizes clean up and maximizes work time.
DEWALT DWE7480XA Video Review
3. DEWALT DW745
Highlights
Heavy-duty Construction
The DEWALT DW745 is one of the most reliable portable saw tables on the market. This tool boasts a heavy-duty construction with a cast tabletop design which ensures cutting accuracy and precision. The clear scales also provide accuracy, making the saw very easy to use.
Cut Versatility
With a rip cut capacity of 610mm and shoe bevels which tilt from 0 to 45°, this portable table saw adapts to most tasks and is ideal to use for amateur and industrial applications. Lightweight and compact, the unit is also easy to carry around.
Overall Assessment
With a no load speed up to 3.850 revolutions per minute and coming with a standard 24-tooth saw blade, the DEWALT DW745 is ideal for the amateur woodworker but also withstands high-volume heavy-duty use. An attractive price adds further value, but the unit lacks a support table.
DEWALT DW745 Video Review
4. DEWALT DWE7491RS
Highlights
Enhanced Mobility
At 90lbs, the DEWALT DWE7491RS may seem less portable than many other models, but the convenient mobile stand included in the pack adds value for money and makes this reliable table saw easy to move around the job site.
Power
Suitable for heavy-duty applications, this portable table saw comes with a 15-Amp motor designed to rip through most materials with ease. The rolling stand is designed for straight, and bevel cuts and the machine also has an impressive rip capacity of 32.5 inches.
Overall Assessment
Ideal for most applications, the DEWALT DWE7491RS will not disappoint. This machine withstands light and heavy-duty use and is perfect to use on a job site due to the reliable mobility kit included. Besides all above, the unit also comes with a dust port, while a rack and pinion fence system makes adjustments a breeze.
DEWALT DWE7491RS Video Review
5. SKILSAW SPT70WT-01
Highlights
Motor
Another machine designed for heavy-duty use, the SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 comes with a reliable 15-Amp motor capable of output a cutting capacity of 5 horsepower. This ensures maximum power and torque for ripping through most materials. Designed for increased cutting speed, the motor also boasts an extended life.
Portable
Compact yet rugged enough to withstand most applications, this table saw weighs only 49 pounds. Nevertheless, it has an impressive cutting capacity of 25 inches and a depth of cut of 3.5 inches, handling most materials.
Overall Assessment
Compact, portable, and suitable for most tasks, the SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 is one of the best portable table saws on the market. It is fairly easy to carry around and is designed to provide smooth cuts on most materials.
SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Video Review
Conclusion
Finding the right power tool is never easy, but perhaps the portable table saw reviews above can help you pick the right one. When choosing, remember to consider the materials you want to cut through and to check blade compatibility in case you want to use the machine on materials other than wood.